Unfortunately, a mouse problem might not be confined to your home or garden: it could end up inside your car. Mice are crafty creatures and can find their way through the smallest openings to access your vehicle. And once they’re in, they can wreak havoc on the wiring, potentially costing you hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars in repairs.
So what can you do to keep mice from entering and damaging your car? Here are a few tips to help you keep rodents at bay.
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1. Block All Potential Entry Points Into Your Garage
Mice can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so check your garage for any potential openings where they might enter—including vents in the walls and gaps under the garage door. Block any openings with mesh, steel wool, or caulk. If your garage door seal is loose or worn, replace it to prevent rodents from squeezing underneath it.
2. Avoid Leaving Your Garage Door Open for Long Time Periods
Mice are opportunistic creatures, and they’ll take advantage of an open garage door to explore your car. Avoid leaving your garage door open longer than necessary so that mice have fewer chances to enter.
3. Keep Your Car Clean and Free of Food Waste
Food waste draws mice in, so make sure you don't leave any snacks or trash from food in your car. All it takes is one piece of food for mice to smell a tasty meal. A clean car is less inviting to rodents, so vacuum and wipe your car regularly.
4. Consider Using Peppermint Oil or Another Rodent Repellent
Strong smells deter mice, so consider placing mothballs, a peppermint spray, or another rodent repellent near areas where mice might enter your car. Make sure you keep these substances out of reach of children and pets.
5. Keep your car windows closed.
Mice can enter your car even when the windows are slightly cracked open, so always ensure that all of your windows are completely closed. This also includes the sunroof!
6. Avoid parking over tall grass or right next to bushes.
Mice can use tall grass or bushes as cover to get access to your car, so try not to park too close. If you must park in a wooded area, consider using a car cover during the night.
7. Invest in Quality Pest Control Services
If you've already had problems with mice in your car, or if you just want an extra level of protection, consider investing in professional pest control services. A pest expert can inspect your property for any signs of rodent activity and recommend the best ways to keep mice away.
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Expert Rat and Mice Removal in North Carolina
Following these tips can help prevent mice from entering your car and damaging its wiring. If you need a rodent control expert in Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, and surrounding areas, contact our friendly team at Sage Pest Control today: (704) 413-3398.